This is a touching episode that easily could have served as the series finale. Perhaps when it was made, they had not been renewed for another season and thought this was the end. I think what I love so much about the story, aside from the heartfelt performances rendered by the main cast, is the way these characters represent real American people who have dealt with real American tragedies. It has even more gravitas when we look at the issues our country has had with national security in the years that have followed. The heroism of a Jack Simon, and I am sure there were many men like him who valiantly and quietly protected the nation, is even more powerful when it is reflected in the hearts and minds of a wife and the two sons he left behind.
Richard Okie's script saves the best part for last, where it is revealed how the Simon patriarch met with a tragic death and lived out his final days. But the first half plays like a mystery, where Rick & A.J. are convinced their father might still be alive. They deal with government cover-ups in their quest to find answers. At one point, Abby Marsh helps them get their dad's grave exhumed. Cecilia shows up, not too pleased this is happening, and when the casket is opened, the result is most startling.
The actor who plays Jack Simon's boss is Joseph Sirola, and he brings a measure of dignity to the proceedings. Eventually he takes mother and sons to the real grave, and when they go into the place where Jack's final moments occurred, we get some very honest and very real emotions. As I watched the last scenes, I couldn't help but feel the writer cared-- he made it a point to give these three closure and to give viewers a better more fleshed out picture of who the Simons are and where the road has brought them.
Richard Okie's script saves the best part for last, where it is revealed how the Simon patriarch met with a tragic death and lived out his final days. But the first half plays like a mystery, where Rick & A.J. are convinced their father might still be alive. They deal with government cover-ups in their quest to find answers. At one point, Abby Marsh helps them get their dad's grave exhumed. Cecilia shows up, not too pleased this is happening, and when the casket is opened, the result is most startling.
The actor who plays Jack Simon's boss is Joseph Sirola, and he brings a measure of dignity to the proceedings. Eventually he takes mother and sons to the real grave, and when they go into the place where Jack's final moments occurred, we get some very honest and very real emotions. As I watched the last scenes, I couldn't help but feel the writer cared-- he made it a point to give these three closure and to give viewers a better more fleshed out picture of who the Simons are and where the road has brought them.